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Cashmere is a luxurious and delicate fabric that requires special care to maintain its softness, shape, and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly care for your cashmere garments:
General Care
- Reduce Wash Frequency: Cashmere has natural antibacterial properties, so you don’t need to wash it after every wear. Airing it out after each use can often be enough to keep it fresh. Aim to wash only after 3-6 wears, or when it’s visibly soiled.
- Avoid Harsh Environments: Keep your cashmere away from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and rough surfaces to prevent damage and fading.
- Handle with Care: Be gentle when putting on, taking off, and wearing your cashmere garments to avoid stretching or snagging the fibers.
Washing
- Hand Washing (Recommended):
- Prepare: Fill a basin with lukewarm water (around 30°C or 85°F). Add a small amount of gentle detergent specifically designed for wool or cashmere.
- Submerge: Turn your garment inside out and gently submerge it in the water. Let it soak for about 15-30 minutes.
- Rinse: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the garment thoroughly until all the soap is gone.
- Remove Excess Water: Gently squeeze the garment to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the fibers.
- Dry: Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Reshape it to its original dimensions and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat.
- Machine Washing (If Necessary):
- Prepare: Turn your garment inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction.
- Machine Settings: Select a delicate or wool cycle with cold water and a low spin speed.
- Detergent: Use a gentle detergent specifically designed for wool or cashmere.
- Dry: Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Reshape it to its original dimensions and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat.
Drying
- Never Tumble Dry: The high heat from a dryer can shrink and damage cashmere.
- Air Dry Flat: Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel, away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Reshape: Gently reshape the garment to its original dimensions while it’s still damp.
Storing
- Fold, Don’t Hang: Hanging can stretch and distort the shape of cashmere garments. Fold them neatly and store them in a drawer or on a shelf.
- Use Breathable Storage: Store your cashmere in a breathable garment bag or a cotton storage bag to protect it from dust and moths.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your cashmere in a cool, dark place to prevent fading and discoloration.
Additional Tips
- Pilling: Pilling is a natural occurrence with cashmere. Gently use a cashmere comb or a fabric shaver to remove pills without damaging the fibers.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, try spot cleaning with a mild detergent or baby shampoo. Gently blot the stain without rubbing.
- Ironing: If necessary, iron your cashmere garment inside out on a low setting with a pressing cloth.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your cashmere garments remain soft, beautiful, and long-lasting for years to come.